why make this recipe
Banana Bread Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the soft and sweet flavors of banana bread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. If you find yourself with ripe bananas, this recipe is a perfect way to use them up. Plus, the addition of frosting takes these brownies to a whole new level of indulgence. They’re great for sharing, perfect for snacks, or as a sweet end to any meal.
how to make Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas (mashed, about 2 cups)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk (more if needed for spreading)
Directions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Banana Brownie Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the walnuts, if using.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and cook until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost and Serve:
- Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies. Cut into squares or bars and serve.
how to serve Banana Bread Brownies
Serve Banana Bread Brownies as a delicious dessert or a sweet snack any time of the day. They can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with a scoop of ice cream. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
how to store Banana Bread Brownies
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing to keep them fresh.
tips to make Banana Bread Brownies
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for fudgy brownies.
- If you like a stronger banana flavor, add an extra mashed banana.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
variation
For a twist, you can add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness. You can also substitute the walnuts with other nuts, like pecans, or omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour. The texture may be denser.
Q: How do I know when the brownies are fully baked?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done.
Q: Can I make these brownies without frosting?
A: Absolutely! The brownies are delicious on their own and can be enjoyed without any frosting if you prefer them lighter.
Banana Bread Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar, sour cream, and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and cook until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty (about 4–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.